A string concern...

Alright, I just got my new Musicman Sterling. I had a rosewood Stingray for the months that i waited for the custom to come. I play mainly reggae and Sublime style stuff. I notice a difference in the tone amoung the Sterling.I expected it though.I just like the neck of the Sterling better.It is more comfortable to me.The Stingray was definetly a fatter, deeper, warmer tone. My Sterling is a maple neck and right now I just have the strings that came with it on.(I am curious what kind they are if anyone can help). I am now seeing on this forum and realizing that the kind of strings can make a difference. I play the Sterling in parallel mostly and always cut the treble a good bit. I would like to get a little warmer sound out of it and I was wondering what someone would suggest as far as a brand, gauge, flat or round, nickel or steel. I think that everything that I have played have been steel and roundwound. An explanation on the different types would be very helpful also.